Virginia Odysseys

James River Odyssey

Virginia’s largest river starts as a small stream in the western Allegheny Mountains, traverses the Shenandoah Valley, cuts through the Blue Ridge Mountains, flows over the fall line in Richmond, and winds past America’s first permanent English settlement at Jamestown, before becoming five miles wide and emptying into Hampton Roads and the Chesapeake Bay. This multi-sport adventure will allow you not only to bike alongside the river, but also float and paddle on the river, which has 48 miles designated as a Scenic River. Along the way we’ll learn about the historic and the modern James River – its geology, its cultural heritage, the natural habitat, and the economic and recreational benefits it imparts to the state of Virginia. Unique accommodations, full-support, scenic routes, small-group camaraderie, special education opportunities, and adventures on the bike and on the river will make this truly an epic journey.

Tour Name James River Odyssey
Tour Length 7 Days, 6 Nights
Virginia Region Hampton Roads & Central
Start & End Williamsburg, VA
Activity Level Moderate
Daily Mileage Options from 20-50
Bicycle Rental No
Off-the-Bike Tubing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Rafting, Hiking, Wine Tasting, Educational and Historical Presentations, Cultural Tours, Entertainment
Price $1,495
$200 single occupancy supplement
2009 August 16 – 22


Detailed Information [PDF]

Highlights

Day 1 | Shuttle for Cyclists and Bikes from Williamsburg to Natural Bridge

Natural Bridge Lodge
Meet in Williamsburg to park cars; shuttle to Natural Bridge. Relax and explore the trails to Virginia’s Natural Bridge before dinner and then enjoy an outdoor drama under the stars.

Day 2 | Bike from where the James River begins to the Blue Ridge Parkway

Peaks of Otter Lodge
Morning shuttle to the beginning of the James. Bike though spectacular scenery along the James. Bike the incomparable Blue Ridge Parkway. Hike to the top of Flat Top Mountain.

Day 3 | From the Blue Ridge to the Piedmont

James River State Park Lodges
Coast 11-miles downhill on the Blue Ridge Parkway to the James River. Enjoy the James River Trail through Lynchburg. Bike the meandering backroads to James River State Park.

Day 4 | Layover Day with Optional Bike Loops

James River State Park Lodges
Float or paddle leisurely down the James River. Hike on the trails in the park. Take a morning or afternoon spin on an optional loop – the longest goes to Appomattox National Park.

Day 5 | Along the James to Scottsville

Chester Inn B&B and High Meadows Inn
Cycle some of the best Virginia country lanes today. Visit Hatton’s Ferry in Albemarle County. Stroll around the quaint village of Scottsville. Savor a four-course gourmet dinner at our inn.

Day 6 | Scottsville to Richmond

Crowne Plaza Richmond Downtown
Bike beside the river in rural farmland before entering Richmond, our state capital. The James River Trail takes us safely into the heart of Richmond by bike. Big city lights tonight!

Day 7 | Richmond to Williamsburg on the Virginia Capital Trail

Cycle Virginia’s route of presidents on the new Virginia Capital Trail. Picnic lunch on the James. Once in Williamsburg, consider exploring Colonial Williamsburg and unwinding at Busch Gardens.

Accommodations

Natural Bridge Lodge | Natural Bridge
Natural Bridge has accommodated travelers since the late 1700's. The present hotel is an icon of Virginia hospitality. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the walk to Natural Bridge and waterfalls.

Peaks of Otter Lodge | Blue Ridge Parkway
The Lodge, completed in 1964, is the flagship hotel along the Virginia portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Relax, breathe deep, and take in the breath-taking scenery of the mountains.

James River State Park Lodges | Buckingham County
These new lodges are perched overlooking the James River. All modern conveniences are included with a fireplace and a wrap-around sitting porch. They invite us to have "no care in the world".

Chester Inn B&B | Scottsville
Chester Inn is a gracious bed and breakfast with the elegant charm befitting an English country inn. Enjoy the lovely rooms, wood burning fireplaces, spacious porches and landscaped grounds.

High Meadows Inn | Scottsville
High Meadows Vineyard Inn is one of Virginia's most charming bed and breakfast inns. The renovated farmhouse boasts over 13 acres of gardens, and a Pinot Noir vineyard, and woodlands.

Crowne Plaza Richmond Downtown | Richmond
The Crowne Plaza overlooks the newly restored Canal Walk and the Tredegar Civil War Museum, within easy walking distance of Shockoe Slip and Shockoe Bottom. Very well appointed!

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